“For the last two weeks they have been training in 35-degree heat so I wanted to see them play in more comfortable conditions,” he said.

“It is obvious from the last two games we played (in Italy) that we have some more hard work to do. It was hard but it was an important test against Bayern Munich. The players were playing at a higher altitude than we are used to and against a side that plays a different way: they kept the ball on a big pitch.

“Every game at the start of the season gives you information on how to work with your players collectively and how to improve the way they play with the rest of the team.

“Last time I said I’d give 60-65 minutes to certain players but after the first half there was no reason to keep going. This time I will give some players 60 minutes because obviously here there are different weather conditions and now they have a few more days rest in their legs they can play a bit more.”

The manager finished by giving the squad a clean bill of health. He continued: “Everybody is available - we don’t have any problems in terms of selection.

“I am keeping my fingers crossed because in pre-season it is only natural to have one or two little niggles, but we are fine at this moment.”